Lost DBS Certificate? Here’s What To Do Next
You can get a replacement certificate, but you’ve got to meet certain criteria. Use the flow chart below to see what your next steps are, and have a read of our page to see what to do about a lost DBS certificate.
The DBS will only issue a replacement for a lost DBS certificate if it never arrived in the post.
If the certificate has been lost or damaged after being delivered, the DBS will refuse to issue a replacement.
If The DBS Certificate Was Lost In The Post
Before deciding your check has been lost in the post, it’s best to check to make sure it’s actually been posted! You can use the government’s DBS tracking service (linked here) to check if, and when, your certificate was posted. If your application is marked as complete, and was posted over 14 days ago, then you’re eligible for a reprint!
There are a few ways to request a DBS reprint, depending on whether we (Aaron’s Department) processed your DBS application, or it was another Umbrella Body. We’ll go over the steps here…
Aaron’s Department Customers
If your DBS application was made using our platform, then the organisation requesting the check can use the Dashboard to request a reprint.
Anyone with a “Company Admin” level account can find your name on the Dashboard, and use the Status column to request a reprint.
This can be done in just a couple of minutes – our system will handle the rest.
Everyone Else
If your check hasn’t been completed using Aaron’s Department, you can request a reprint directly from the DBS.
You’ll need to call the DBS on 0300 020 0190, navigate their call centre, and provide some personal details. You’ll also be asked to explain why the reprint is required. Remember, the DBS won’t issue a reprint if it’s been misplaced or damaged! Only if it never arrived by post.
Alternatively, there is also a form you can download on the DBS’s website, which needs completing and returning by email to: DBSReprints@dbs.gov.uk
Lost DBS Certificate – After 3 Months
So, it has been more than three months (93 days), since the date of issue of your certificate, and you’ve lost it – what happens now?
This may not be the news you were hoping for, but if it is the case, the only option to get a replacement DBS certificate is to start the whole DBS application process again.
Get Your DBS Check Through Aaron’s Department
Next time your organisation needs DBS checks, consider applying through Aaron’s Department! We have a range of features to ensure your certificates arrive ASAP, and in the case of lost certificates, we can speed up the re-application process.
If you are needing to apply for another DBS check within 90 days of a previous one, we can pre-populate the new application form with all of your applicant’s details (the 90-day cut-off is due to GDPR data security rules). This saves heaps of time!
What’s more, our affordable DBS checks mean that your future applications won’t break the bank either – click here for our pricing page.
Use the buttons to register your organisation with us (for free), or book a discovery demonstration of our system. Our Operations Team are always happy to take questions – give us a call on 0113 877 0171, or email contact@aaronsdepartment.com and we’ll see what we can do.
About The Author
Matthew Dugdale
Matthew is our go-to when it comes to all things related to Recruitment & DBS checks. His experience and expertise helps make sure that everyone gets the correct level of check.